Traveling has never just been about going from point A to B for me; it is about evolving, yearning, and being responsible. As an economics student, I love to think about how societies navigate evolution alongside sustainability. This summer, I have the exciting opportunity to think about these concepts physically at Koç University in Istanbul, a city that boasts a blend of both historical and modern relevance.
I have always loved Turkey—the culture, the people, the variety—and the thought of living independently in these new surroundings fills me with joy. However, as I planned for this adventure, I also realized that experiencing a new culture should go hand-in-hand with being aware of my impact on the environment and local context.
In thinking about how to make my journey sustainable, I began with a direct flight to avoid unnecessary carbon emissions. I compensated for the emissions I could not avoid with projects that focus on reforestation and renewable energy. I minimized waste in my daily spending by bringing items that are reusable—water bottles, reusable bags, reusable utensils. I also chose to pack lightly.
After arriving in Istanbul, I will engage with local life sustainably: travelling by public transportation or walking throughout the city; sourcing from local markets; and supporting businesses that actively promote sustainability. The small changes I can make will lessen my negative impact on the environment and allow me to engage more entirely with the community and local culture.
I want to know how sustainable development can create value for societies while my passion for economics drives me to learn. At Koç University, I expect to interact with classmates and professors about important topics such as responsible consumption, climate action, and economic policies that promote sustainability that coincide with the UN World Economic Summit’s Sustainable Development Goals. I hope to take those ideas back to my community and use them in future projects.
This placement is more than an academic experience; it is a step toward becoming a conscious global citizen. I hope to begin a “Green Exchange” with other students to talk about sustainable habits and learn from their varied experiences. While in Istanbul, I will volunteer with local environmental causes to make a positive impact on the city.
Sustainable travel is about respecting the places we travel to, including their environments, culture, and people. I want this summer to be an opportunity to see the beauty and complexity of Turkey while keeping my footprint as light as possible. I want to be intentional in my actions and continue to learn so that I can represent the idea of growth and sustainable living as two things that can exist together.
I hope that by committing to eco-travel and sustainable living while at Koç University, I can promote a deeper understanding of global issues and take one mindful step toward a cleaner and more equitable world.
